Another rationale for the preference for partnerships comes from the perspective of service integration and coordination. The proliferation of categorical services, often motivated by federal and state funding directives, created complex and fragmented systems that were frequently difficult to access, as well as inflexible and redundant. By coordinating service providers, partnerships can develop comprehensive plans, eliminate duplication, allow members to specialize in their functions, link and integrate partners' activities, and ensure consistency. These benefits improve efficiency, making better use of more limited resources, increase flexibility, and enhance the ability to leverage resources.

Survey Disclaimer

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this information collection is 0990-0379. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average 5 minutes per response, including the time to review instructions, search existing data resources, gather the data needed, and complete and review the information collection. If you have comments concerning the accuracy of the time estimate(s) or suggestions for improving this form, please write to: U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, OS/OCIO/PRA, 200 Independence Ave., S.W., Suite 336-E, Washington D.C. 20201, Attention: PRA Reports Clearance Officer.